An Unforgettable Road Journey to Ladakh from Delhi | Ladakh Road Trip Planning, routes & Tips

First Published on September 11, 2023 

The question I often hear as a traveler is, “What’s the best road trip you’ve done?” Without hesitation, my answer is always the same: the Delhi to Ladakh Road Trip. Spanning 12 days, this circuit is an undeniable favorite among road trippers in India. The breathtaking diversity of landscapes, exhilarating climbs, thrilling off-road adventures, and captivating pit stops along the way make this road trip an amazing experience that stands out in your memory. That’s why I candidly recommend it in my Ladakh Road Trip Guide. Embark on this remarkable journey, and you’ll understand why it holds a special place in the hearts of travelers.

While this Ladakh road trip may seem like a dream, it’s important to know that it’s not an easy journey. These terrains require thorough preparation, right from taking care of your health to choosing the right vehicle and booking accommodations in advance. You’ll often need to start early in the morning to cover long distances on this road trip. But believe me when I say that all the effort is worth it. My own 12-day Delhi to Ladakh road trip was so memorable that given the opportunity, I would do it all over again.

Consider this guide to Ladakh as a personal account filled with memories. I’ll be sharing my day-to-day itinerary, the fun misadventures I encountered, and the valuable lessons learned along the way. This guide will also provide you with various routes from Delhi to Leh, highlighting their advantages and disadvantages, along with the best time to embark on this trip. In essence, it has everything you need to plan your own road trip to Ladakh. So, let’s start exploring our destination: Ladakh.

About Ladakh

Ladakh lies in the Jammu & Kashmir region, surrounded by the majestic Karakoram mountain ranges. It rightfully earns the name “Land of High Passes.” This remote area is home to several Tibetan settlements and requires caution as you travel along the borders of neighboring countries. Leh, followed by Kargil, is the main city in the region. The high altitude of Ladakh offers a unique perspective of Himalayas.. I assure you that this unexplored part of India will leave you in awe.

Essential tips for a thrilling Ladakh trip by road

Before you get deeper into the details of this road trip to Ladakh, I urge you to first read my detailed travel guide to Ladakh. This has a lot of information on a basic visit to Ladakh including a packing list, the best time to visit Ladakh, the Inner-Line Permits etc. The Ladakh travel guide will help you better prepare for your entire trip. However, in addition to that article, do make a note of some specific tips mentioned below. 

Choice of Vehicles – When it comes to the perfect vehicle for a Ladakh trip, opt for a 4×4 drive like a Scorpio, Jeep, or Thar. If you prefer bikes, sturdy ones like Bullets or Royal Enfields are highly recommended. Given the challenging terrain with high altitudes, steep roads, and even no roads at times, you need a vehicle with excellent pick-up capacity and off-roading capabilities.

Expert Driver – Keep in mind that these roads are far from straightforward. You’ll encounter narrow ghats, sharp curves, tunnels, and slippery mountain stretches throughout the trip. It’s crucial to either be an expert driver yourself or hire one who can navigate these roads safely.

Pre-trip servicing of the vehicles – Before you embark on your journey from Delhi, make sure to get your vehicle serviced. Remember, there are long stretches without garages or even fuel stations. You wouldn’t want to be stranded due to any vehicle issues.

Tool Kits – Pack essential tools like puncture repair kits and neon signals for a smooth driving experience. 

Snacks for the road – Don’t forget to bring snacks for the road since you won’t find many restaurants or cafes after leaving Jammu or Manali (depending on your chosen route). Keep plenty of water with you, especially for acclimatization purposes.

Battery packs & chargers – Lastly, can’t stress enough about the importance of battery packs and chargers. They’ll come in handy for your mobile devices, which tend to drain faster with GPS usage and cold weather.

Planning the Best Routes for Your Epic Delhi to Ladakh Road Trip

To reach Ladakh from Delhi, you have two primary route options: the Srinagar to Leh route and the Manali to Ladakh route. If you’re planning a round trip from Delhi to Ladakh, you can take advantage of both routes, using one for the outbound journey and the other for the return trip. That’s how I designed my 12-day Ladakh road trip.

Alternatively, many people opt for a one-way road trip to Leh and then take a flight either to reach Leh or return from there. In light of this scenario, let me provide you with a summary of the advantages and disadvantages of the two routes, so you can make an informed decision. Based on my experience, I will also recommend which route is more suitable for your onward or return journey from Delhi.

Road trip to Ladakh from Delhi via Srinagar

The journey from Delhi to Ladakh, passing through Srinagar, covers a distance of approximately 1035 km and takes about 22 hours to reach Leh. This route allows you to experience the beauty of the Kashmir valleys, with their majestic snow-capped Himalayas, lush green valleys, and sparkling glaciers that transform into rushing rivers. If you are traveling from Delhi to Leh, this route is highly recommended as it offers breathtaking scenery and unforgettable sights along the way.

The Pros of a road trip from Srinagar to Leh 

• The driving distances are fairly balanced, allowing you to reach the bigger cities well in time for your night halts. 
• The rise in altitude is gradual, allowing you to better acclimatize and avoid AMS.
• The roads are not so deserted and have quite a few petrol bunks as well as small towns along the way. 

The Cons of the Srinagar to Leh road trip

• The slightly volatile situation in Srinagar can sometimes create a hassle. However, one can always choose to skip Srinagar and drive past it to Sonmarg. 
• Slightly less adventurous in terms of the drive as compared to the Leh-Manali route. 

Road trip to Ladakh from Manali

When comparing the distance of a trip from Delhi to Ladakh via Manali, it may appear shorter at around 770 km. This might lead you to believe that you will reach Leh faster. However, that’s not the case. Due to the steep climb, the journey via Manali can take just as long as the Srinagar route to reach Leh.

Although the new Atal Tunnel has made this stretch easier, taking the tunnel means missing out on some of the most breathtaking views of the Rohtang Pass. After all, the essence of a road trip is to cherish the beautiful sights along the way.

This route is best suited for your journey from Leh to Delhi. 

The Pros of a road trip from Manali to Leh

• The driving distance though shorter tends to be a little more strenuous. For one, the climb is steeper and two, there are longer stretches to cover before a night halt – especially the Keylong to Leh stretch.
• One can save around 3.5 hours if they take the newly constructed Atal tunnel from Manali to Keylong instead of Rohtang pass.

The Cons of the Manali to Leh road trip

• The rise in altitude is steep, even without Rohtang pass. One has to be extremely careful when traveling toward Leh.
• Along the way, you will come across limited facilities such as restrooms, restaurants, and accommodations. It’s advisable to carry enough food, water, and other necessary supplies to sustain yourself during the journey.
• There are a lot of ghats and loops on this route. One needs to be very careful while driving.
• The road from Manali to Leh is known for its rough and sometimes unpredictable conditions. It is a remote and challenging terrain, so it’s important to be prepared for bumpy rides and occasional roadblocks due to landslides or other natural conditions. 
• Long Travel Hours: The road trip from Manali to Leh can take anywhere from 2 to 3 days, depending on the pace and stops you make along the way. T

A Detailed Day-to-Day Itinerary for your Leh Ladakh Road Trip

Sure! If you’re planning a road trip from Delhi to Ladakh, I highly recommend setting aside 12 days for this incredible journey. It’s one of the best road trips you can experience! Let me break down the itinerary for you day by day, so you know what to expect and where to stay along the way.

Firstly, I want to mention that there are two routes you can take for this trip. For the journey from Delhi to Leh, I took the Srinagar route. And for the return trip, I chose the Manali route. Both routes offer their own unique experiences.

So fasten your seat belts and embark on this stunning Delhi to Ladakh road trip. 

Day 1 of the Ladakh Road Trip – Delhi to Jammu

From Delhi – Murthal – Ludhiana – Pathankot – Jammu

Distance: 588 Kms

Drive Time: 9 hours

The first day of a road trip is always full of enthusiasm and anticipation. It’s enough to get you out of bed early and leave the city by 5 am. Start your day by hitting the NH44 as early as possible and aim to reach Murthal around 7 am. Here, you can enjoy a delicious breakfast at one of the many Dhabas and food courts on the highway. They serve piping hot parathas with generous helpings of butter.

After a satisfying meal, continue your journey towards Ludhiana on the same NH44. You can expect to drive for approximately 4 hours to reach your destination. Enjoy the scenic views and make the most out of your time on the road.

I highly recommend stopping for lunch before heading to Pathankot. Instead of going into the city, I suggest sticking to the food courts along the way. It will give you a chance to refuel and recharge for the next leg of your journey. From Murthal, it’s about a 3-hour drive on the same NH44 highway to reach Pathankot. If you need to top up on fuel or simply stretch your legs, this is a good place to do so. You can even enjoy a cup of hot tea while taking a break.

After your stop in Pathankot, continue driving on the same highway for another 3 hours, and you will arrive at your first night halt in Jammu Tavi. This part of the road trip has more big towns and fewer scenic views, but don’t worry – the excitement of the first day and the lively atmosphere created by fellow travelers singing catchy songs from the 80s and 90s kept the journey vibrant and enjoyable. Before I knew it, I was already in Jammu.

For the overnight stay in Jammu Tavi, I stayed at one of the comfortable Oyo hotels. You can browse through this link to find the one that suits your preferences best. It’s important to have a good rest before continuing the adventure the next day.

Unveiling the Beauty of Ladakh on Day 2: Explorations from Jammu to Sonmarg

Jammu – Udhampur – Ramban – Srinagar – Sonamarg

Distance: 336 kms

Drive Time: 7.5 hours

Now comes the enchanting part of your trip to Ladakh by car. Although the total driving time is only about 8 hours, I suggest starting early on Day two so that you have some time to explore the sights in Srinagar. Starting early will also allow you to compensate for any unexpected delays caused by army movement along this route.

From here, you’ll hit NH 44 again and head towards Udhampur. This part of the journey takes around 1.5 hours. I recommend not making a stop here and instead continuing towards the famous Chenani-Nashri Tunnel, one of the longest tunnels in India. It’s also known as the Patnitop tunnel, with the official name of Dr. Syama Prasad Mookerjee tunnel. This tunnel reduces your distance on the Jammu-Srinagar stretch by 30 km and travel time by almost 2 hours. It’s around 9 km long and driving through it is quite exciting.

After passing through the tunnel, keep going towards Ramban town where you can find a good variety of hotels along the Chenab river to grab a bite to eat. The drive from Udhampur to Ramban takes about 2.5 hours, and the tunnel is located right in the middle of these two towns. Make sure to take a break here to freshen up because the next part of the journey to Srinagar will take over 3 hours. As you continue, you’ll start to catch glimpses of the magnificent Himalayas. The brown hilltops will gradually transform into breathtaking green valleys, all surrounded by majestic snow-capped mountains. This is the perfect time to take frequent photo stops and appreciate the stunning viewpoints along the way.

However, be careful while stopping along the highway as there are numerous restrictions. You might find a lot of army patrols along the way, stopping you and asking you for your identification. Keep your personal IDs handy as well as the car papers sorted (insurance, permits, registrations and licenses). Once you reach Srinagar and assume things are quiet there, spend some time by Dal lake or take a tour of the Shalimar gardens. 

The final part of your road trip in Ladakh on Day two is the most breathtaking. As you continue from Srinagar towards Sonamarg, you’ll experience firsthand why Kashmir is called Paradise on Earth. The sight of magnificent glaciers melting into streams right before your eyes is absolutely awe-inspiring. I couldn’t get enough of these stunning natural wonders. In fact, it was during this stretch that we made the most stops to capture the beauty of the lush green landscapes with our cameras. We were determined to capture the essence of this verdant paradise.

We decided to make Sonamarg our final stop for Day Two due to some unrest in Srinagar. Ideally, it would have been perfect if we could have followed our original plan precisely. However, we encountered a major roadblock caused by a landslide just after Ramban. This unexpected event forced us to stay overnight in this small town. Unfortunately, due to the time lost, we had to rush past the scenic stretch to Srinagar without being able to stop and take photos. The drive from Ramban to Srinagar felt like traveling through the picturesque meadows of Switzerland. The scenery was absolutely stunning and truly lived up to the phrase “Paradise on Earth.”

If you have gone as per the original plan, you can check into a hotel in Sonamarg – many of them are listed on this link.

Birds Eye View of the Kargil Town – our night halt on Day 3 of the Ladakh Road Trip

Sonamarg – Zojila Pass – Drass – Kargil

 Distance: 125 kms

 Drive Time: 3 hours

Oh, what a sigh of disappointment! Due to the landslide, we arrived in Sonamarg a day later than originally planned. I truly hope that you have better luck than I did and get to experience the beauty of the clouds hovering over the meadows of Sonamarg. You can start your day at a relaxed pace and take the morning to explore the sights in and around Sonamarg. After a satisfying lunch, you can continue your journey and drive on NH1 towards the magnificent Zojila Pass. This pass serves as your gateway into the remarkable Union Territory of Ladakh.  

The Zoji La Pass holds immense significance as it not only connects Kashmir to Ladakh but is also notorious for being one of the most dangerous mountain passes. Sitting at an impressive altitude of 11,575ft above sea level, this pass spans approximately 25.8 km in length. The road itself comprises sharp zigzags, and its narrowness often allows only one vehicle to pass at a time. Consequently, it’s crucial to exercise extreme caution while driving through this pass. Due to heavy snowfall, the pass is closed during winters. Even in spring or summer, there might be temporary blockages, so it’s advisable to check with army checkpoints in Sonamarg or Baltal before proceeding. Another important point to remember is that the pass closes by 5 pm.

Despite the dangerous stretch, one cannot help but gasp at the bewitching valley below – sometimes packed with the colorful tents of people heading for the famous Amarnath yatra. There are one or two vantage points along the pass, where you can stop for a minute or so and enjoy the stunning backdrop of the Himalayas. Once you are past the Zojila Pass, stop at the famous Zero point. This is one stretch that is cold throughout the year. In fact, it is called so because no vegetation is able to survive the extreme temperature.

This is where we chose to stretch our feet. A few photos to remember the crazy adventure and we were soon on our way to Drass – the coldest place in India and the 2nd coldest one to be inhabited on earth. This is where you need to make time for the Kargil War Memorial. This is located right on the highway and is a must-visit destination. Warning though – it is extremely melancholic and it is hard to hold back tears when you listen to the story of the Kargil war, right in front of the very hill it happened. 

After the memorial, just take a short break at Drass to refuel yourself and head straight to Kargil. Once in Kargil, you can check into a hotel and relax for the day. Kargil is a lovely city by itself and I highly recommend walking around the river area and the marketplace. 

The one thing that you must be cognizant of on this stretch is that your ascent is gradually increasing. Keep drinking a lot of water and avoid strenuous activity to ensure you are not hit by AMS. It is best to avoid smoking and alcohol for the day. 

Exploring the Mystical Beauty of Ladakh: A Journey to Remember on Day 4

Kargil – Mulbekh – Fotu La Pass – Lamayuru – Leh

Distance: 216 kms

Drive Time: 4 hrs

Though your drive time is just 4 hours, it is best to get an early start from Kargil. The key reason for this is that there are numerous attractions on this stretch of the road trip to Ladakh and a few of them will require time. Again, remember to keep drinking water as you will still be ascending towards Leh. 

After refueling in Kargil, make your way to the Mulbekh monastery, around a 45-minute drive away. Look out for a remarkable stone carving of Lord Buddha, which marks the entrance to the monastery. From there, continue on to the Fotu La Pass. Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by a vibrant display of prayer flags fluttering in the wind. Take a moment to step out of your vehicle and admire the breathtaking view of the Zanskar range of the Himalayas. This is the highest point along the Srinagar-Leh highway and provides a perfect vantage point to appreciate the stark contrast between the Ladakh landscape and the green valleys of Kashmir. It’s a sight worth savoring.

Follow the zigzag roads till you reach the village of Lamayuru. Plan to take a break here for lunch and explore the oldest monastery of Ladakh. The monastery will take around 45 minutes or so and thus, it is better to order your meal at the restaurants near Lamayuru monastery before embarking on the tour. Post lunch, stop at the base of the monastery to take in the view of Moonland (called so owing to the texture of the mountains). 

The next part of your journey will take approximately 1.5 hours to reach the outskirts of Leh. However, for me, it felt like just 30 minutes because the landscape continuously changed, displaying stunning colors that kept me captivated. Before I knew it, I had arrived at Nimmoo, where I marveled at the beautiful hues of the Zanskar-Indus confluence. I couldn’t resist taking some quick photos to capture the moment. After that, it’s time to experience the Magnetic Hill. Don’t forget to make a stop at the Pathar Sahib Gurudwara, located just after the Magnetic Hill. There, you can enjoy some refreshing food before making your way straight to Leh and checking into your hotel. It’s worth mentioning that this Gurudwara is maintained by the Indian army and they graciously provide free food to visitors.

Leh has a lot of hotels to choose from. You can check this link and book directly using the same. 

Day 5: Exploring the Tranquility of Leh – A Professional’s Guide to Making the Most of Your Rest Day

Day 5 in Leh is all about acclimatization to the high altitude. It is best to take it easy and enjoy the city at a slow pace. You can explore the Leh market, visit the famous Leh Royal Palace and the Shanti Stupa or even the Hall of Fame museum in Leh. However, try to keep an even pace and not tire yourself. 

While in Leh, apply for your Inner Line Permits either directly or through your hotel. You will need to get permits for your visits to Nubra Valley, Tso Moriri and Pangong Lake. Refer to this link to know more about the Inner line permits. 

Day 6 on the Delhi to Ladakh road trip – Heading to Nubra Valley

Leh – Khardung La – Diskit – Hunder (Nubra Valley)

Distance: 125 kms

Drive Time: 3 hours

Don’t rely on the estimated driving time for this stretch because there are so many incredible photo opportunities along the way. The journey to Nubra Valley is absolutely stunning, with scenery that feels almost unreal. To make the most of your trip, it’s best to start early from Leh and head straight to Khardung La, which is one of the highest motorable mountain passes in the world. Take a quick break here to snap some pictures, but be cautious of the high altitude. It’s important not to stay for more than 10 minutes to avoid any altitude-related issues. Once you pass Khardung La, get ready for a fantastic descent where you can truly enjoy the ride and take in the awe-inspiring surroundings.

After taking a break to refresh yourself at Khalsar, it’s time to continue your journey to Diskit. This part of the drive is incredibly beautiful, with the serene Shyok river flowing alongside you and the mesmerizing sight of the cold sand dunes beginning to appear. The landscape undergoes a magical transformation, shifting from lush green valleys to vibrant red sand mountains, and finally to vast white deserts.

Keep your eyes peeled along the way, as you might be lucky enough to come across tranquil lakes with stunning reflections. And if you’re really fortunate like I was, you might even catch a glimpse of wild horses roaming freely.

Once you reach Diskit, make sure to follow the path that leads to the magnificent Maitreyi Buddha statue. You won’t miss it, as the statue is so grand that it can be spotted from a distance, standing tall amidst the breathtaking surroundings.

 Spend an hour or so exploring Diskit monastery before making your way to Hunder. Check into your Nubra valley stay (you can book on here) and relax for the rest of the day amid the white sand dunes surrounded by gorgeous mountains in the company of the famous double-hump Bactrian camels – ones that are usually found here. 

A must-mention event that took place during my Ladakh trip by road on this stretch was the Highest Bloggers meet – a feat that has got recorded in the India Book of Records. 20 of us – fellow bloggers were invited for a meeting at the Khardung La Pass by Oyo rooms and ScoutMyTrip. It was quite a gathering when we unfurled our banner at the top of 2nd highest Motorable Pass in the world. Definitely a memory that has been imprinted for life!

A Journey to Remember: Exploring Nubra to Pangong Lake on Day 7

Hunder- Khardung La- Leh – Thiksey – Chang La Pass – Tangste – Pangong Tso

Distance: 240 kms

Drive Time: 6.5 hrs

OR

Hunder- Shyok – Durbuk – Tangste – Pangong Tso

Distance: 240 kms

Drive Time: 6.5 hrs

Don’t be fooled by the estimated drive time and distance alone when choosing between two different routes. These routes offer unique challenges and opportunities to explore the captivating attractions of Ladakh along the way.

During my own road trip to Ladakh, I initially planned to take route two via Shyok. However, luck was not on my side as the road conditions were poor, and the river was heavily flooded, making that particular stretch impassable. So, I decided to change my plans and traveled to Pangong via Chang La Pass instead.

In your case, you can make the decision based on your own preferences after considering the information about both routes. Take some time to read through the details below and choose the route that best suits your desires.

Nubra Valley to Pangong Via Leh & Chang La Pass. 

If you’re considering taking this route, it’s best to leave as early as possible after having breakfast. Your drive will take you all the way from Khardung La to Leh. Once you reach Leh, take a break and enjoy an early lunch. After that, continue your journey towards Kharoo.

On your way to Kharoo, there’s a place that holds a special place in my heart – Thicksey Monastery. I highly recommend making a stop here. The monastery is incredibly picturesque, and exploring it from within is truly a rewarding experience. However, please note that if you choose to visit Thicksey Monastery, you’ll have to skip another attraction along the way – Hemis Monastery. You can only visit one of them, as time may become a constraint if you try to do both.

So, take your pick and decide which monastery you’d like to visit. Either way, you’ll have an amazing experience on this route.

Once you surpass Kharoo, get ready to embark on your ascent to the breathtaking Chang La, the highest motorable pass in the area. As you reach the top, take a few minutes to soak in the stunning views before continuing your journey towards Durbuk and Tangste. Finally, you will arrive at the much-awaited destination – Pangong Lake.

The road to Chang La Pass is relatively smooth with well-maintained roads, but it does slow down your driving pace due to the ascent and descent. However, the experience is worth it as you witness the mesmerizing landscapes unfolding before your eyes.

Keep in mind that if there’s any flooding along the way, you might have to navigate some off-road tracks to cross the streams. It’s similar to what I encountered during my own trip. While it adds a thrilling element to your journey, it can also slow you down a bit.

Embrace the adventure and enjoy the experience as you make your way to Pangong Lake, appreciating the unique challenges and joys that come with this route.

Also, do stop by to see the friendly marmots, who keep popping up along the way. 

Nubra Valley to Pangong Via Shyok

That’s great! If you want to avoid the high climbs at Khardung La and Chang La, taking the route via Shyok is a good option. The roads in that area have been improved, which makes the drive easier and more enjoyable.

To take this route, you can leave a little later from Nubra and drive up to Khalsar. Once you reach Khalsar, there is a bifurcation that takes you away from Khardung La and towards Shyok Village. From the village, you can continue your journey and head straight to Durbuk and Tangste. And finally, you’ll reach the beautiful Pangong Lake.

This alternative route allows you to experience the beauty of the region without the challenges of high altitude ascents and descents. It’s definitely worth considering if you prefer a more relaxed and scenic drive.

That sounds wonderful! On this route, you’ll have the beautiful Shyok river accompanying you all the way to the village. While there may not be any major attractions to stop at, there are plenty of picturesque spots along the way. It’s the perfect opportunity for a quick photo shoot to capture the scenic beauty of the area.

Your night halt in Pangong will most likely be in Tangste or by the tents around the Lake. Remember to bundle up well as the temperatures even in summer tend to go to single digits. You can find your accommodation through this link. 

Day 8 of your Ladakh road trip: Discover the Enchanting Charm of Changthang Valley and Tso Moriri

Pangong Tso – Merak- Chushul – Nyoma – Sumdo – Tso Moriri

Distance: 330 Kms

Drive Time: 8.5 hours

Get ready for a day of breathtaking and rugged beauty! Start your day by catching the morning sunrise at Pangong Lake, where you’ll witness the magical transformation of the sun-kissed lake from an orange-streaked gray to a stunning bright blue. Make sure to have a hearty breakfast and pack some extra food for the day, as you won’t come across any restaurants or towns along the way.

As you continue your journey, be prepared to drive through landscapes that may seem like something out of a TV show or even your dreams. It’s an opportunity to immerse yourself in the raw and untouched beauty of the surroundings. Enjoy the scenic drive and create unforgettable memories along the way.

After enjoying the beauty of Pangong Tso, continue your journey towards Merak and then Chushul. At Chushul, make a stop at the Rezang La War Memorial, also known as the Chushul War Memorial. This memorial is dedicated to the soldiers who lost their lives during the 1962 Indo-China war. It’s a meaningful place to pay your respects and take a moment to freshen up before heading towards the Leh-Manali highway.

Please note that this entire area is located very close to the China border, so it’s important to stick to the main roads for safety reasons. Enjoy your drive and stay safe throughout your trip.

The drive from Chushul to Nyoma is truly breathtaking, although at times you may find yourself on dirt tracks instead of proper roads. This is where you’ll experience vast stretches of desolate land surrounded by majestic mountains. The only inhabitants you’ll come across are wild horses, marmots, and maybe a few mountain goats.

From Nyoma, continue your journey towards Sumdo and finally make your way to Karzok, also known as Tso Moriri. As you drive, you’ll have the Indus River flowing alongside you, adding to the beauty of the scenery. It’s a remarkable experience that allows you to immerse yourself in the natural wonders of the region. Enjoy the adventure and take in the incredible views!

If you find Pangong Lake cold, Tso Moriri will be freezing. It is after all the highest altitude lake. Be prepared with warm clothing. There are only tented accommodation here – which you will have to pre-book in Leh.

Exploring Keylong: A Memorable Stop on the Day 9

Tso Moriri – More Plains – Pang – Sarchu – Jispa – Keylong

Distance: 336 Kms

Drive Time: 10.5 hours

Sure! Prepare yourself for a very long drive, but don’t worry, because this will be your last chance to see Ladakh before you return to Delhi through the Leh-Manali route. The road back is quite nice and easy, with very little rough terrain. Along the way, you will come across Tso Kar, a beautiful high-altitude lake with salty water. After that, you will reach More Plains, which is one of the highlights of the Delhi to Ladakh road trip, especially for bikers. Driving through More Plains is an absolute joy!

If you don’t want to drive too much, you can consider stopping for the night at Pang. However, I recommend pushing ahead and experiencing the famous Gata loops to Sarchu. If you’re tired, you can always stay in Sarchu. But if you’re feeling good, keep going to Keylong. Personally, we stayed in Keylong and started a bit late the next day. Taking that little break in the morning really made a difference for us. 

The few sights that you must look out for include the very Petra like landforms from More Plains to Pang, the 21 hair-pin bends of Gata loops, the ghost temple of Gata Loops at the 19th bend and the Suraj Tal lake before you hit Keylong. While the sights might be self-explanatory, a little lore about the Ghost temple of Gata Loops. The temple is identified by the mounds of plastic bottles at the 19th loop. They say that a truck driver died in the cold long back and even now his soul walks around asking for water. So, as a mark of good luck, drivers on the loop leave behind water or cigarettes at the mound. 😉

There are plenty of restaurants that you will find at Pang, Sarchu and Keylong. You can also use these places to freshen up on the journey. 

Day 10 on the Ladakh trip by car – Keylong to Manali 

Keylong – Rohtang Pass – Manali

Distance: 115 Kms

Drive Time: 4 hours

or 

Keylong – Atal tunnel – Manali

Distance: 70 Kms

Drive Time: 2 hours

To be honest, when I went on my road trip from Delhi to Ladakh, the Atal Tunnel wasn’t an option yet. It was completed in later years. So, the only route available for me was through the beautiful Rohtang Pass. Personally, I still would love to take that route because of the breathtaking sights, like gorgeous waterfalls, lush green valleys, and majestic snow-capped mountains. However, I must warn you that it’s a steep climb.

If you take the Atal tunnel route, you can completely by pass the Rohtang pass and the climb, as well as cut short your distance by a good 2 hours. Of course, the choice is completely up to you. In case you are driving from Pang or Sarchu, the Atal tunnel would definitely ease your drive time. 

Since the drive is shorter, you can take some time to explore and enjoy the sights in Manali. While there are many hotels in the town center, I suggest staying a bit farther from the hustle and bustle, closer to the highway. I stayed in a charming property by the Beas river, and you can find that hotel as well as others in Manali through this link. You can find that as well as other Manali hotels through this link

Day 11 – Return to Delhi from Manali

Manali – Bhuntar – Mandi – Chandigarh – Delhi 

Distance: 575 kms

Drive Time: 12.5 hours

To be honest, this is just a long drive back home where you can reminisce about the beautiful memories of the mountains you’ve seen over the past 10 days. The journey from Manali to Delhi can be completed in half a day since the roads are smooth and include toll highways. However, if you want to shorten it further, you can stay overnight in Chandigarh. Just make sure you have your PUC certificate in Chandigarh as they’re really strict about it and might check it. Technically, the trip takes 11 days, but the extra day is just a buffer in case you encounter landslides, breakdowns, or any unexpected situations. As you can see, the terrain is challenging, and it’s always better to have that extra day. 

Before concluding, I recommend hopping over to the FAQs section for any additional information you may need. And don’t forget to save this ultimate guide for your road trip to Ladakh by pinning it for future reference. Safe travels!

Common FAQs for the Road Trip to Ladakh

Can we go to Ladakh by car?

Yes, you can. In fact, I highly recommend a Ladakh trip by car to enjoy the beautiful terrain. Though it might be a difficult drive in parts, with the right precautions and planning, the road trip by car will be very enjoyable.

Which car is the best for a Ladakh trip?

I would highly recommend a sturdy SUV like Tata Hexa or Scorpio for a Ladakh trip. A 4×4 wheel drive is what will help you steer through the tough terrain where sometimes you only have a rocky stretch. You need a powerful engine to climb up the steep slopes as well as a good fuel capacity – mostly because there are large stretches without any fuel bunks in sight. 

Can we take sedan to Ladakh?

Yes, one can drive a sedan to Ladakh. However, it will take an extra effort and care to drive through those steep slopes and rugged roads. 

How many days is Leh Ladakh road trip?

Keep aside at least 12 days for a Leh Ladakh road trip from Delhi. If all goes well, you can complete the circuit from Delhi to Leh and back in 11 days but it is always good to keep a day extra for any detours or unforseen circumstances

Is a road trip to Ladakh safe?

A Ladakh road trip is quite safe, despite the tough terrain. You just have to ensure that you have planned your route properly and taken all the right precautions – not just for your car but also, for your health

If you have any tips or suggestions. Please let us know in the comments below! And if you found this post useful, don’t forget to share it with your family and friends.

TRAVEL DIFFERENTLY!